Quintana Roo’s Income Boom: Where Does the Money Go?

Quintana Roo, Mexico — Quintana Roo ranks as the ninth-highest state in Mexico for average monthly household income, reaching 29,585 pesos in 2024, according to the National Survey of Household Income and Expenditures (ENIGH) released by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). The biennial survey provides insights into the economic conditions of Mexican households, detailing earnings and spending patterns across regions.

Rising Incomes Outpace Inflation

The data reveals a significant increase in household income for Quintana Roo, up 11.7% from 26,487 pesos in 2022. This growth exceeds cumulative inflation rates and signals post-pandemic economic recovery in the state.

Leading the Southeast Region

Within Mexico’s southeastern region, Quintana Roo tops the list for household income, followed by Yucatán (26,657 pesos), Campeche (22,079 pesos), Tabasco (21,667 pesos), and Chiapas (13,695 pesos), which reports the lowest figure nationwide. Quintana Roo’s economic strength is attributed to its thriving tourism and commercial sectors, particularly in cities like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, and Tulum.

Household Spending Priorities

The ENIGH 2024 breakdown shows that Quintana Roo families allocate the majority of their income to three key categories:

• Food and beverages (36.1%)
• Transportation (19.5%)
• Housing and related services (11.4%)

Combined, these expenses account for over two-thirds of household budgets, leaving limited room for other necessities.

Marisol Gutiérrez, a regional development economist, explains: “Quintana Roo’s high mobility costs and elevated food prices—driven by tourism—force families to prioritize these expenses. Residential areas are often far from hotel zones, increasing transportation needs.”

Lower Expenditures Raise Concerns

In contrast, healthcare represents just 2% of total household spending, a concerning figure given limited access to social security and public health services. Education and recreation account for 11.3%, while smaller allocations include clothing (3.4%), home maintenance (5.6%), and personal expenses (6.1%).

The Cost of Living in a Tourist Hub

Despite higher incomes, residents face steep living costs. Lucía Rivas, a single mother and supermarket employee in Cancún, shares: “I earn around 10,000 pesos monthly, with nearly half going to food. Transportation eats up another large portion. Saving is nearly impossible.”

Income inequality is evident, with some households earning over 60,000 pesos monthly while others struggle at 10,000 pesos.

Policy Implications

Experts urge policymakers to use ENIGH data to guide decisions. Gutiérrez emphasizes: “Targeted measures—efficient public transport, food subsidies, and accessible healthcare—could alleviate burdens. Public spending should focus not just on tourism infrastructure but also on supporting local communities.”

Progress Amid Challenges

Quintana Roo’s 11% income growth and high average household earnings reflect economic gains. However, the survey underscores disparities in how income is distributed and spent, highlighting the need for equitable solutions to improve living standards.